**Europe Must Take Ownership of Ukraine War, Says EU Commissioner**
Russia is not winning the war in Ukraine, according to European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius. In an interview with LRT broadcaster published on May 26, Kubilius stressed that Europe must stop relying on the United States to ensure this remains the case.
Kubilius emphasized that the EU must be ready to defend Ukraine and itself, with or without Washington’s backing. While U.S. support has been vital, he said that the EU’s long-term security depends on its own strategic and industrial strength. This is particularly important as U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled that he may withdraw from peace efforts unless progress is made.
Kubilius’ comments were sharply worded: “450 million Europeans should not be begging 340 million Americans to protect Europe from 140 million Russians who cannot take on 38 million Ukrainians.” He noted that the EU has matched U.S. aid to Ukraine, with around 60 billion euros ($68 billion) provided over the last three years.
Recent research by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy found that total European assistance to Ukraine since 2022 actually exceeds that of the U.S. by 23 billion euros ($26 billion). Despite this, Kubilius said Europe still hesitates to take full ownership of the war’s outcome.
**Developing EU Defense Policy**
Kubilius argued that Europe must prepare for a world in which U.S. involvement in its defense wanes. While he emphasized the importance of avoiding a “chaotic divorce” with Washington, he said the EU must develop a clear and independent defense policy.
This includes developing the EU’s own defense industry. Currently, when Europeans buy weapons, only 20% of their purchases come from European industry, while over 65% come from the U.S. Kubilius noted that a 150-billion-euro ($170 billion) EU loan facility could provide new channels to strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities and defense sector.
**Ukraine Needs Europe’s Support**
Kubilius acknowledged that Ukraine needs support, but emphasized that this can come from both the European Union and the United States. Without U.S. backing, however, Europe must think about how it will continue to provide aid. “There is no other way,” he said.
As ceasefire talks stall and U.S. diplomatic efforts show little progress, Ukraine has renewed its calls for more European aid, particularly in air defense. Kubilius’ comments highlight the need for Europe to take ownership of the war’s outcome and develop a clear, independent defense policy.
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